Various Types of Workplace Injuries
In the United States, more than 600,000 injuries occur in the workplace every year. Fortunately, the vast majority of these injuries are minor, resulting in only temporary pain or discomfort and little or no time off from work. Nevertheless, every employee—no matter what industry they work in—faces the very real possibility of sustaining a serious workplace injury.
American workers report all types of injuries, with overexertion and fall injuries topping the list. Overexertion injures can be caused by lifting, pushing, pulling, throwing, carrying, kneeling, or bending. Fall injures may occur due to wet, slippery surfaces, unmarked or damaged stairs, cluttered pathways, and improper lighting.
The other most common types of job-related injuries are due to repetitive motion tasks, improperly placed ladders, electrical dangers, motorized vehicles, workplace violence, and by being struck by or caught in mechanical equipment.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
Whether you work on a large construction site or behind the counter in a neighborhood coffee shop, you face inherent hazards specific to your line of work. Consequently, you have every right to expect your employer to provide you with the proper training and equipment necessary to keep you safe while you are performing your duties. Furthermore, it is your employer’s responsibility to keep the workplace premises and equipment up to date and in compliance with industry safety standards.
No one expects to be injured while at work, and most employers are dedicated to keeping their employees safe (and productive). Nevertheless, accidents do happen. Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance designed to protect workers who are injured on the job. Benefits may include payments for medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation expenses, and death benefits. When you sustain any type of work-related injury, no matter who appears to be at fault, you are entitled to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Why You Might Need to Speak With Qualified Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
We understand that when you have sustained an injury, it can be very difficult to think about anything other than your recovery. However, in the case of a workplace injury, it is very important to make sure your workers’ compensation claim proceeds as it should. Employers are not always as cooperative as they should be when it comes to this type of situation.
If you have been injured at work, and are finding it difficult to file a claim for any reason, reach out to our team of dedicated Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers at Shea Law Group. We have extensive experience in this area and will do everything we can to make the process as stress-free as possible. Call for a free consultation at (877)-365-0040 or contact us online today.